Inn at Playa Del Rey

Occupying a gray beach house in quiet Playa del Rey, this B&B has a New England style, and feels homey and relaxing -- a true respite from hectic Los Angeles. Interior common spaces have a crisp, nautical vibe, with clean whites and deep navy blues, and paintings of birds on the walls -- a nod to the fauna of the nearby Ballona Wetlands. The lobby feels something like a friend's beach house living room, with its hardwood floors, white couches, model ships above the cozy fireplace, and oversized windows with wetland views. Free wine and hors d’oeuvres are offered here in the early evenings, and guests can enjoy tea, lemonade, and cookies throughout the day. The quaint breakfast room has a country feel with a warm wood and stone fireplace, white wicker furniture with blue floral-patterned pillows, and an outdoor seating area on a gray-wood deck with more views. Additionally, there is an outdoor courtyard with blue and white seating and plenty of leafy, potted plants. Guests are mainly tourists, including singles and couples, and the warm staff contribute to the low-key, convivial atmosphere. 

The Inn at Playa Del Rey is in a residential area on the west side of Los Angeles. While the street just outside can get busy with traffic, the neighborhood is one of the quietest in the city, and guests can stroll to great restaurants, dive bars, and the beach within about five minutes. Those with a car can reach Dockweiler State Beach in just a few minutes, or head to Venice Beach in about 10 to 15 minutes. The beautiful Manhattan Beach Pier is a 15-minute drive, and LAX is a 10-minute drive. Guests can also rent bikes at the inn, and bike along the beach path. 

All rooms are individually decorated, with color palettes ranging from clean white to pale blues or grays, along with brown carpet, white wood furniture, metal bed frames, contemporary recessed lighting, and ocean-themed photos. Each room has a flat-screen TV, an iPod docking station, air-conditioning, and a bathrobe; there are no coffeemakers. Some rooms have added perks, such as fireplaces, jetted tubs, bath salts, and balconies with exceptional views of the Ballona Wetlands. The Grandview Suite has extra space, as well as a mini-fridge. Some guests complain of exterior traffic, and noise from other guests' rooms and balconies, though. Private bathrooms are done in white or blue tile, and have shower/tub combos. 

The free, hot breakfast is a great perk and includes homemade items, such as egg strata, cakes, fresh breads, and fruit. Free chocolate chip cookies, coffee, and lemonade are offered throughout the day, and in the early evening, the property offers free wine and light snacks. Free Wi-Fi and parking are available on-site, as are free bike rentals, and there are concierge services. The business center in the lobby looks like a comfortable home office, and has a printer.